Moving forward in the Federal Election
UIRED REGARDLESS OF ELECTION OUTCOME
Transgender Victoria welcomes the calling of the 21 August 2010 Federal election as a chance to move forward on a range of issues affecting trans* people – and all those “under the rainbow.”
“We were pleased to notice Prime Minister Gillard’s commitment to fairness in the workplace as part of her address to announce the polling date. We look forward to this commitment including the urgent implementation of Federal equal opportunity law covering sex and gender diversity (and sexuality).
Fairness across Federal workplaces can only be achieved with strong consistent laws, rather than an ad hoc approach that can and does leave the health and wellbeing, possibly the life, of trans* and other people at risk.”
“Further, our community has at least 15 years worth of issues on which to catch up in relation to our rights at the Federal level. These include but are by no means limited to Federal equal opportunity law, documentation reform for SGD people, better health care for trans* Australians and equal marriage.”
“One thing TransGender Victoria will not accept is any rationing of reform. Trans people, along with our gay, lesbian, bisexual and intersex cousins deserve the full menu of human rights reforms, not just a few crumbs from under the table.”
“As an example, regardless of the party, we note that in Victoria from 1999 to 2002 the ALP formed a minority government in the lower house with the support of 3 independents, two being somewhat conservative. The government also was in a minority in the upper house.”
“It still achieved equal opportunity reform in its first year and 2 rounds of domestic partnership laws in its second and third years. There is therefore, no excuse for a “one reform per term of government approach” similar to the last 3 years, regardless of the Federal election outcome.”
“At this point, we also urge all of our community to ensure they are on the electoral role, regardless of voting intention. Please take the time on Monday to visit an Australian Electoral Commission office if not already enrolled.”
For more information contact Sally Goldner on 0407 946 242
